Fleming College

Musical Instrument Construction

Course Code: ARTS0141

This course will introduce the principles, materials and methods of stringed instrument construction. Through hands-on work, as well as lectures and demonstrations, you will progress through the first steps of construction of your own banjo or violin. Formal lectures will focus on acoustics, glues and gluing, grading and selection of materials, tools, tool maintenance, bending, forms and moulds. Time is limited, but progress can be made in mastering the skills to advance rough cut wood toward a good, working violin or banjo. By the end of the course, you can expect to have the instrument sides bent and assembled on moulds as well as the backs and tops shaped to smooth outer archings. Banjo makers could expect to have a one-piece neck and dowel stick made to completion. The course welcomes and challenges beginners to woodworking and enthusiastic musicians as well as experienced craftspeople. If you would like to learn more about instrument assembly, you can bring 'assembly kits' and the instructor will assist with piecing the instrument together.